BarclayBuddy

How can Barclays help vulnerable customers with mental health issues manage their money better?

BarclayBuddy is a new third party access system with the user always in control. It allows for flexible third party decision making. The user can choose who their Buddy is and what they can see and do. From just receiving notifications about the users spending to a full-time carer responsibly taking care of the user's money, the system can be personalised to all needs and every person, because sometimes we all need a little help from our friends. 

Managing money together helps build trust and starts honest and open conversations between friends and family about money issues. On live chat, the user will be able to add a Buddy to the conversation to make them feel more comfortable talking to a staff member. Buddies will be able to responsibly send money on behalf of the user, pay bills and view details if allowed by the user. 

BarclayBuddy goes beyond an app, continuing the system in branches and community spaces. It will also focus on the vulnerable groups such as over 65s and mental health patients to show them how BarclayBuddy can help them, but they will be open for the wider community to discuss sharing financial control.